As a result of direct advice
from Egyptian Security Services, Christian denominations have issued directives
cancelling conferences and trips throughout July as a precautionary measure.

Since December 2016 there has
been a renewed spate of targeted attacks on, and murders of Egyptian Christians, with a reported 117 Coptic
Orthodox Christians murdered across the country in that period. This campaign began with the bombing of St Peter’s Coptic
Orthodox Church in Cairo in December 2016, and followed by Palm Sunday church bombings
in Tanta and Alexandria, an attack on pilgrims visiting a monastery in Minya,
and targeted attacks on individuals across Egypt.

His Grace Bishop Angaelos,
General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, confirmed these
reports, saying:

“Having
communicated with colleagues in Cairo, it is obvious that the current campaign
of terror against Christians is escalating rapidly. These measures have come
after our community has experienced brutal attacks against innocent women, men
and children across Egypt, and we pray will help to safeguard against future
atrocities.

This
unfortunate step comes at a time when children, young people and families will
be deprived of the conferences and trips that they so look forward to over the
summer period and have grown accustomed to over decades. Saying that however,
it is of course more important, while recognising their huge disappointment, to
do our best to ensure their safety.

Despite
these measures, the ongoing liturgical and pastoral life of the Church will be maintained
as she continues to provide daily support for her children.

Here in the United Kingdom, and around the world, we are praying peace and
safety for all the people of Egypt at this increasingly challenging time. We
also pray that the orchestrators and perpetrators of this deadly wave are
rightly brought to justice, and reconciled with their intended God-given humane
and merciful nature.”

*Ends*

Resources:

Number of Coptic
Christians reportedly murdered in Egypt since December 2016

December - February 2017 – 40 Christians killed in total in the bombing of St Peter’s Coptic Church in Cairo, and the targeting of individuals in Cairo and Sinai

April 2017 – 43 Christians killed in Tanta and Alexandria church bombings